TWO group exhibitions are to open at a local art gallery - one exploring what things really matter to people and the second examining life's twists and turns, both good and bad.

The first is Values, a 20-piece show at The Gallery at Willesden Green that has been produced by first-time curator Edward Bettella after volunteering there for a year.

"World recession and plummeting prices poses the question 'what is valuable?'," says Mr Bettella.

"Using the current crisis as a point of reflection, Values aims to explore this question through art by bringing together a group of artists to express values they hold dear to themselves.

"As well as financial stability, friendships, political ideals, memories, cultural, moral and religious identity are all values that we may hold dear.

"The expression of values through art will provide the viewer with a chance to contemplate what is valuable to them."

Mr Bettella advertised on art websites and art blogs for exhibitors and then selected 10 to take part, choosing their best two works for the display.

Those with work in Values are Siobhan Beaton, Daryl Wells, Simone Wallace, Nishad Karim, Klara Smith, Melanie Blackwell, Debbie-Adele Cooper, Adam Hedley, Sarah McHarg and Myra Fricker.

Between them, it turns out they appreciate the environment, friendships and families and even urban regeneration.

The Gallery at Willesden Green's second exhibition is 'Life Transitions' from curator Sarah Harris.

She said: "The theme is particularly apt in this time of economic downturn when many people are losing jobs and even homes and having to adapt to straitened circumstances.

"Sometimes one is able to prepare for change, as with a long engagement or retirement.

"More often than not, change happens suddenly and is thrust upon us by means beyond our control.

"One often thinks one cannot cope but in fact once you reach the opposite shore you find you can."

Contributors have submitted figurative works reflecting fond childhood memories and the changing of the seasons, as well as touching on things like sexuality, while others are showing more abstract and reflective pieces.

Lastly, the gallery's glass cabinet will house impressive mosaic art from Debra Collis.

what? The Gallery at Willesden Green where? Willesden Green Library Centre, High Road, Willesden Green when? Values, from October 22 to November 13, daily from 2pm to 6pm.

Life Transitions from October 20 until November 13, daily from 10am to 11pm